April 14th, 2008

Is That Really Organic? Don’t Get Fooled!

Posted by Jessica Jensen

Stumble it!digg it add to del.icio.ustechnorati

When you go to the grocery store or drug store these days every food or beauty product seems to shout at you “I’m organic!” or “I’m all natural!” But as you likely suspect, some of these products are wolves in sheep’s clothing.

The Organic Consumer’s Association has recently started a “Coming Clean Campaign” in which they are hoping to drive greater integrity and clarity in the body-care products segment. As they point out, the word “organic” is not well regulated in the personal care products segment, and lots of products using the word do not pass the standards of the USDA National Organic Program. Click on the link above to learn more about which ingredients and brands to avoid.

Another excellent resource we use often here at Low Impact Living is the Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database. Skin Deep is a safety guide to cosmetics and personal care products that is maintained by researchers at the Environmental Working Group. You can look up individual brands and products and find out if they contain any ingredients that may harm your health. They rate shampoos, makeup, soaps, lotions– almost everything. Unfortunately many brands produce both safe and un-safe products, so you really have to do your research. And Skin Deep is an invaluable help!